Life in Costa Rica: What a beautiful way to open a business!

As you may remember, today was Opening Day for Gerardo's new hardware store. I walked there for the 9:00am Mass as it is only two blocks away. It was 9:30 when it finally started. The building is enormous with two levels and a ramp to get to the second level for freight or handicapped people. The main area was set up for church with family, friends and all the people from the senior center. The music was great and Father was dancing as he was getting set up. After Mass Father blessed everyone and everything he could including the workers out on the street waiting to get busy. We went on a tour of the entire building and then back down to the church area. But, church was over and now the music was dance music. And lots of people did dance! Lunch was served. It was a fruit drink, chicken fried rice, salad and chips. Ana, Gerardo's sister, did all the cooking starting after my party yesterday. She was preparing for about 200.

Gerardo brought out a framed picture he had made from his father's 90th birthday party. It is a great picture. Papa was there and spent time dancing.

I sat with Dona Alicia and her friend and later moved to sit by Tia. So many people greeted me. People from the senior center and family. I love that I now know and recognize so many and they recognize me. I think Dona Alicia asked me how I did the sweet potatoes but I could be making that up. When Emilio is around on Dec. 4th we will ask her.

I left just after noon and I believe they opened to the public at 1:00pm. I had my massage scheduled for 1:00. I moved it from 10:00am because I wasn't sure how long the event would last.

Otto wasn't able to come yesterday because he was working. I had cooked up some wild rice in vegetable broth and most of it went in the dressing but I kept some out for him and I gave it to him today. I think the massage really helped and I am feeling much better. I have a couple quiet days ahead before the class on Monday, the pools on Tuesday and the class on Friday. Then the next Monday the Canadians get here and 8 days later I fly back to Wisconsin for Christmas. I hope to get some baking done before that. I will also do a bunch at Heather's. English Toffee and Coconut Macaroons and Chocolate covered Coconut Balls for sure.

It was very obvious Gerardo was in charge in his quiet unassuming way. He was aware of everything going on and the employees all had an eye on him. If he looked at someone and made a motion they responded and did whatever he wanted. It was neat to watch. One of his daughters seems to be very involved, like a right hand, and it was her who cut the ribbon to the ramp. Her name is Sylvia and she is very nice.

Another good day in Paradise. Just a short rain late this afternoon.